Monday, August 22, 2011

Go Forward

Then the LORD said to Moses, Why are you crying out to me?  Tell the people to get moving!  (Exodus 14:15). 


   The Israelites needed to go forward because there was no turning back.  With the Egyptian army behind them, the wilderness on the right and left, and the Red Sea in front of them, what choice did they have?  Instead of putting their faith in God, they cried out to Moses, Is it because there were no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness?  They still hadn't learned the benefits of trusting in God.

   Jesus said, Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.  (Luke 9:62 NLT).  


   Is your faith being tested?  Are you in a position where there is no turning back?  I can't go back and undo the mistakes I've made and neither can you.  Our only course is to go forward.  The army of God never stands still.  God's marching orders are firm.  The seeming impassable seas have to be crossed, and the unscalable mountains climbed.  I know from experience that God is able to pave the way and make the path straight.  He supplies the abilities and equipment to finish the task.

Thought for the Day: Claiming the promises of God puts us on the road to victory in Christ.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Montana Missionary Trip - Overview

Andy and Denise Samuelson shared with us some of the highlights of their recent trip, which also include several other members of our class.



"Welcome to Townsend, Montana!"



This is the church the group was working with:


There were lots of fun activities with the kids:


.... as well as plenty of work to be done:


And here is a look at a beautiful Montana sunset:


Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Painted Faces

   On our recent mission trip to Montana, the team helped to mange a "block party" held for the entire community of Townsend on Thursday evening from 5:30 to 8:30.  The weather was windy and cool and many coats and sweaters were in evidence.

   For food we had a roasted pig along with hot dogs, side dishes, pink lemonade and cake for dessert.  Our youth helpers made popcorn and cotton candy.  The event was held in the local park and team members helped manage the inflatable jumping stations, a climbing wall, and bean bag toss.

   One of the popular stations for the "painted faces" tent was our very own Carolyn Kitzman who braved the cold weather to paint the faces of a long line of waiting participants.  The kids coming from Carolyn's tent looked like a rampaging Indian war party.

   The Elkhorn Community Fellowship will hold their first service on August 11th.  Pray for Pastor Eric and Jessica as they seek to start this new work in Townsend.